By Chigozie Chukwuleta
The Niger Delta Games primarily aim to discover and develop podium-level athletes to sustain the region’s dominance in national competitions, secure the future of Nigerian sports, and empower athletes for professional careers locally and internationally.
Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, Managing Director of Dunamis-Icon Limited, project consultants for the Games, stated this during the official press unveiling of the 2nd edition on Wednesday in Lagos.
Sir Ikpokpo highlighted grassroots participation, stricter eligibility rules to curb age cheating and poaching, and investment in sports infrastructure as key strategies to achieve these goals.
He noted that competitions, like the Niger Delta Games sponsored by the NDDC, provide vital platforms for talent discovery. While over 600 athletes with potential have been identified, Ikpokpo urged states in the region to nurture these talents.
He revealed that nine participating states would each present 270 athletes to compete in 17 sports disciplines, and assured that the 2nd edition would build on the successes of the first, held in Uyo.
Scheduled for February 20–27, 2026, the event will take place in Edo State, which was praised for its sports infrastructure, including the Dr. Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
Ikpokpo was joined at the unveiling by Fred Edoreh, Project Director; Harry Iwuala, Head of Communications; Edi Lawani, Head of Culture and Entertainment; Godwin Enakhena, Scouting and Mentorship Committee Chairman; and Onome Obrhute, Head of Special Duties.
Source/NDG Media
